Italy approves 500 troops and tougher protest penalties

Italy’s cabinet approved a decree on Tuesday imposing tougher measures after weekend unrest in Milan, including the deployment of 500 additional soldiers and new penalties for violent participation in demonstrations. The decree also makes parents financially liable for damage caused by their minor children and changes the presumption used to assess criminal responsibility for people over 14. The troops are to reinforce security at key sites and help monitor sensitive locations in Milan. The decree provides for their deployment through the end of 2026. The measures took effect immediately, but the decree must be converted into law by parliament within 60 days. Under the decree, violent participation in a demonstration becomes a criminal offence punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to 20,000 euros. Penalties increase in specified circumstances, including when participants conceal their faces or someone is injured. The provisions also allow authorities to seek compensation for damage. For people over 14, the decree presumes they can understand their actions unless that is shown otherwise, changing a determination previously left to a judge, according to...